The US Embassy in San Jose has issued a rural safety warning U.S. citizens, foreign residents, and travelers warn of a sharp increase in targeted crimes throughout Costa Rica. The advice speaks of an increase property crime, financial extortion and armed robbery affects foreigners across the country.
According to the embassy Criminal gangs have targeted foreign-owned homes and businessescarrying out robberies, burglaries and extortion attempts. There were casualties in several incidents forced to withdraw large sums of cash or carry out bank transfers under threat. Additional, Tourists have reported armed robberies and break-ins at Airbnbs and other short-term rentalswhich is causing increasing concern within the hospitality industry.
The warning comes as several international governments continue to advise caution. The US Department of State currently lists Costa Rica under ‘Be extra careful’ as a result of crime, citing frequent incidents of theft, theft and fraud. Similar guidelines from Australian authorities warn against this home burglaries, carjackings and violent crimeswhich reinforces the need for increased vigilance.
The embassy calls on foreign homeowners to do this strengthen physical securityincluding installing cameras, motion sensor lighting, secure locks and reducing visible valuables. Property owners are encouraged to do so limit their online presenceavoid sharing information that could reveal their whereabouts or assets, and establish clear security protocols for family, staff and visitors.
Travelers are advised not to do this physically resist robberiesavoid showing signs of wealth and take precautions during your visit banks, ATMs or unsecured areas at night. Visitors must be thorough research rental propertiesensure adequate safety measures and purchase travel insurance that covers theft or loss.
The embassy emphasizes that Costa Rica remains a popular destination, but the current increase in targeted criminal activities requires this increases situational awareness and prompt reporting of all incidents to the Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ).
